Granite
| Quartz
Material: Man-made 85%-95% crushed quartz with a resin binder. Finish: Polished or honed. Scratch Resistant: Yes Repairs: Small nicks can be filled. Large damaged areas must be replaced. Sink Application: Under-mount or self-rim. Pros: Easy to clean, will not stain, uniform color, virtually . Cons: Material is porous. It must be sealed periodically to prevent staining. |
Solid Surface
Material: Man-made from acrylic or polyester plastics. Finish: Satin. Scratch Resistant: No Repairs: Must be repaired by a certified fabricator. Sink Application: Integral bowl, under-mount or self-rim. Pros: Seamless. Cons: Burns and scratches easily.
| Butcherblock
Material: 100% Natural laminated wood. Finish: Oiled. Scratch Resistant: No Repairs: Can be easily sanded out. Sink Application: Under-mount or self-rim. Pros: The most sanitary of countertop materials. Cons: Material is porous. Mineral oil must be applied periodically.
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Stainless Steel
Material: Man-made material. Finish: Brushed. Scratch Resistant: No Repairs: Not easily repaired. Sink Application: Integral bowl, under-mount or self-rim. Pros: Seamless, sanitary, and easy to clean. Cons: Scratches and dents easily.
| Laminate
Material: Man-made plastic fused to a plywood backing. Finish: Polished, matte, or textured. Scratch Resistant: No Repairs: Not easily repaired. Sink Application: Self-rim. Pros: Available in many colors and patterns. It is the least expensive countertop material. Cons: Not easily repaired and may have seams. |
